AFIA opens registration for PCQI training course scheduled for June 2025

USA – The American Feed Industry Association (AFIA) has announced that registration is now open for its 2025 Preventive Controls Qualified Individual (PCQI) training course. 

Scheduled for July 15-17 in Nashville, Tennessee, this in-person course developed by the Food Safety Preventive Controls Alliance (FSPCA) will provide essential training for professionals involved in animal food manufacturing.

“PCQI training is essential for ensuring the safety and compliance of animal food manufacturing,” said Gary Huddleston, AFIA’s Director of Feed Manufacturing and Regulatory Affairs. “This in-person course not only provides the necessary knowledge to meet regulatory requirements but also fosters valuable peer-to-peer learning.”

This course serves as the standardised curriculum recognised by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as meeting the requirements for PCQI training. 

Successful course completion enables participants to fulfil PCQI requirements under the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA). 

Attendees will receive a certificate of completion issued by the FSPCA and gain insights into FSMA regulations, current good manufacturing practices, and the development of animal food safety plans. 

Additionally, AFIA will host an evening networking reception to enhance the learning experience.

For those who have already completed PCQI training but need to refresh their knowledge, AFIA will offer a refresher course on December 9-10, also in Nashville. 

While not a full recertification, this session will revisit key FSMA compliance concepts, providing a streamlined review of core material. Registration for the refresher course will open this summer.

AFIA, Feedstuffs open applications for Feed Facility of the Year Program

In addition to its training initiatives, AFIA, in partnership with Feedstuffs, has opened applications for the 2025 Feed Facility of the Year program. 

This prestigious recognition allows feed manufacturing facilities to benchmark their performance against industry peers and highlight areas of excellence. Applications will be accepted until April 25.

“The Feed Facility of the Year program allows facilities to see how they stack up against others in the industry, helping them identify areas for improvement and celebrate areas of excellence,” said Huddleston. “It also supports the next generation of feed industry employees, making it a win-win for plant managers.”

Participants receive a detailed benchmarking report evaluating key performance indicators, including safety, quality and food safety, regulatory compliance, productivity, sustainability, and employee development. 

Facilities can compete in one of four categories: commercial dry manufacturer, liquid feed manufacturer, integrator manufacturer, and premix/ingredient manufacturer. AFIA and Feedstuffs will honour the overall Feed Facility of the Year winner with an on-site award presentation.

Last year, the program underwent significant enhancements, including a charitable component. Proceeds from the 2024 Feed Facility of the Year program contributed US$14,080 to the AFIA Equipment Manufacturers Committee scholarship fund, supporting the industry’s future workforce.

The 2025 application phase is now open, with a US$250 application fee. Interested facilities must submit their applications by April 25 to be considered for this esteemed industry recognition.

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